One resident hospitalized after Valley apartment fire

A Spokane Valley woman was hospitalized for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in her apartment this evening. Valley fire crews responded to The Villages, 217 S. Sullivan Road, about 6:40 p.m. and found furniture in one unit ablaze. The only resident, who uses a wheelchair and supplemental oxygen, was able to get out on her own. Her cat is still missing, fire officials said. The fire was contained to her apartment, although the unit did not sustain structural damage, officials said. Only furnishings caught fire, although there was extensive smoke damage throughout. The cause of the fire is under investigation, officials said, and early damage estimates are at $25,000. Spokane Valley Fire Department sent one ladder truck, five engines and four staff officers to the scene. Sheriff’s deputies responded as well.